Komatipoort-Elephant Walk Retreat – (Lodges in Mpumalanga)

About Us

The land that Elephant Walk Retreat is built on has been a family heritage since 1973.

Mike and Stephanie Klopper moved to the Lowveld with Stephanie’s parents that year, and although it was a big move for them after the thrilling city life of Pretoria, it turned out to be an extremely rewarding decision, where they have blissfully spent the last 45 years living, watching their daughter and grandchildren grow up.

The family had always had a love for the Kruger National Park and had visited the area frequently for holidays. When Stephanie’s father saw that a stunning piece of land located right next to Crocodile Bridge Gate was for sale, he could hardly resist. With its unparalleled views of the Kruger National Park, situated on the magnificent Crocodile River, and plenty of wildlife visiting frequently, he knew that he had to invest in it.

At that time, the land only had sugarcane on it. There were no trees, no houses, and no structures of any sort. Through plenty of hard work and perseverance, the land was developed in to a magical place where the family happily lived for many years.

In 1992, Mike and Stephanie decided that they wanted to be able to share their fantastic location, and the blessed life they experienced daily, with people from all over the world, and so Elephant Walk Retreat began.

They started off small with only two chalets in the corner of the property overlooking the Crocodile Bridge and river. Mike, who is a highly qualified and skilled “Jack of all trades” designed the chalets and implemented the entire procedure, with Stephanie joining him at the helm.

Along with their loyal staff, mike built the chalets, with his very own hands, and it wasn’t long before they received their first guests. The chalets were named Inyati (meaning buffalo) and Bhejane (meaning rhino) in the Zulu language.

The name Elephant Walk Retreat seemed only fitting because the area itself had become a much-loved spot for magnificent herds of sometimes over 200 elephants to visit on a daily basis for a drink. The youngsters loved to play amongst the reeds, while the adults spent the hot, sunny days taking a dip in the river. To this very day, the elephants still love to visit, and come right up to the fence.

Over the years, Elephant Walk Retreat has continued to expand, with a total of 4 chalets, 5 log cabins, and a large (and always inviting) swimming pool. The aim has always been to keep the lodge as small and intimate as possible for their guests. Mike and Stephanie created Elephant Walk Retreat to be a haven to those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience the magic of the Kruger National Park exclusively.

Elephant Walk Retreats tagline: Rest, Relax and return which was thought out by Stephanie’s late mother, sums up exactly what they have tried to achieve here.

Swimming Pool

A large swimming pool and communal relaxation area is situated on the property behind the units. The pool is filled with crystal clear borehole water and is the ideal spot to spend those Lowveld sunny days, while reading a book or sipping on a refreshing beverage.

There is a wide step leading in to the swimming pool, which is perfect for the kiddies, and the older folks. Three thatched lapa areas surround the pool, with comfortable seating.

Please note that children under 12 may not use the swimming pool without adult supervision.

Mike and Stephanie look forward to welcoming you to their small piece of paradise.